Sunday, March 1, 2015

Acceptance and friendship are wonderful things about a team - By Stephanie Coffin

Team: Coming together as a team to achieve a common goal.

Diversity: Encompasses acceptance and respect.

Friendship: A friendly feeling or attitude, a kindness
given to someone.

These are all words that describe what Andrew Tanguay and
David Cross sought when they joined the Windham High School boys basketball
team. Both boys sought to be part of a team, to develop friendships that they
saw other kids having and to be accepted while they were able to enjoy
participating in a sport they loved.

When asking Coach Kevin Millington what it was like to
have Andrew and David on his team he stated, “They are wonderful and it’s been
such a joy to have them around.” Both boys are seniors this year and they are
leaving high school knowing they made friends and were accepted for whom they
are and not what challenges they have had.

David played basketball his first two years of high
school, he didn't play last year but came back this year to wrap up his high
school career. Andrew has been with the team all four years. Coach Millington
commented, “They bring an incredible enthusiasm for basketball and their team.
It is so clear how much they love playing and being around the guys. If you saw
them in school, they are very proud to be a part of our team. Their enthusiasm
is contagious and brings a real positive energy to everyone.”

It’s is really hard to measure how much they have meant to the coaches alone.
The coaches have watched the boys make friends with the guys, especially the
seniors. They often sit together at lunch or just hang out in the "eagles
nest" - the tables outside the cafe. It was such a wonderful example of
acceptance and tolerance that the coaches were proud just as much off the court.
“I am always amazed by kids and how great they can be to each other. Andrew and
David reminded us (fellow coaches) everyday how important it is to love the
game. It is tough at times during a high school career. It's not always as fun
as it is when they are younger because things get more competitive. They remind
us often that this is just a game,” said Millington.

As Andrew and David played their last game in the
quarterfinals, the seniors and coaches had tears in their eyes knowing it was
over, Andrew reminded them one more time, that it’s just a game. “Outside of a
state championship, I wouldn't have wanted it to end any other way” said
Millington.

These boys kept the team grounded and always put a smile on their face. Andrew
will be taking a break after high school and then continue on to CMCC in the
agricultural program and hopes to be able to join another sports team where he
will continue his passion for sports.